Canada selects 21 for the FIFA U-17 World Cup UAE 2013

Canada has announced its roster for the FIFA U-17 World Cup UAE 2013. The 21-player roster will represent Canada from 17 October to 8 November in the 14th edition of the biennial competition.

Canada is one of 24 teams competing in the final competition, having qualified as one of four CONCACAF nations back in April. In the group phase of UAE 2013, Canada will face Austria on 19 October, Iran on 22 October, and Argentina on 25 October. Canada’s three group matches will all be played in Dubai.

“I have belief in our team,” said Canadian U-17 coach Sean Fleming. “The commitment and dedication from the boys has been fantastic.”

Ahead of the competition, Canada will train in UAE from 5-14 October. Along with the 21-player squad, Canada will carry three alternates in the pre-competition camp in case of injuries.

Of note, 16 of the 21 players have benefitted from more than 75 days in Canadian youth program activity. All 21 players are attached to clubs, be it in Canada, USA, England or France.

The four established Canadian professional clubs – Vancouver Whitecaps FC, FC Edmonton, Toronto FC and Impact Montréal – are all represented in the Canadian squad.

The FIFA U-17 World Cup is an important step in player development en route to Canada’s national “A” squad. This marks Canada’s second consecutive appearance at the tournament.